KARACHI, July 27: Pakistan’s former Asian champion Muhammad Yousuf also qualified for the last-16 stage of Asian snooker championship when he out-potted Yutaka Fukuda of Japan in straight frames. The 54-year-old Yousuf, featuring in his 14th Asian contest, faced no trouble while carving out a 80-60, 64-29, 59-49, 64-14 win.

Seeded ninth, Yousuf ended the league “H” outing with three wins and one defeat. Issaara Kachaiwang of Thailand emerged as group leader with four straight victories. Third seed Saleh Mohammad topped Pool “C” with five straight win and rated among the favourites to grab his maiden title if able to produce his best under pressure After last day’s league activity on Thursday, the pre-quarterfinals of 21-nation contest will be played on Friday.—APP